Following days of heavy rainfall and flash flooding, multiple Iowa wastewater treatment plants have reported discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater. These discharges result from heavy precipitation, power outages, and storm damage. Since April 1, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has received reports of 131 discharges at wastewater treatment facilities due to heavy rain, with 44 occurring in the last five days. Excessive rainfall can overload wastewater collection systems, which are sewer pipes that carry sewage to treatment plants. Aging or poorly maintained sewer systems are particularly vulnerable to stormwater influxes. Overwhelmed sewage pipes can cause water to back up into basements, posing health risks. Bypassing the collection system helps lower water levels, preventing sewage backups. DNR staff continue to monitor these situations and assist impacted communities. The public is advised to avoid floodwaters and elevated waterways for safety. For more information on wastewater discharges and flooding updates, follow the link included below.
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